Congratulations to Coleton Haggin on receiving the Thomas J. Wanner Memorial Scholarship at MCAA26 during the Awards of Excellence Breakfast this past spring in Phoenix.

The MCA/MSCA of Cleveland established this $5,000 scholarship in honor of their former Executive Director, Thomas J. Wanner. Thomas Wanner focused on labor relations, collective bargaining, education and training, legislation, codes, and business operations for over three decades.

Coleton anticipates graduating from the University of Nebraska in May 2027 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He has been an active member of his student chapter since 2024 and previously interned with MCAA Member, Hayes Mechanical.

“I really like the fact that mechanical construction is vital to how people live their day to day lives. There are things we use every day, like toilets and air conditioning, that most people overlook. However, it takes a lot of planning and smart, talented people to provide these luxuries. Seeing these things on a larger scale through projects like shopping centers and data centers is also very intriguing. All the work behind these systems, from drafting to installation and startup, takes so much coordination and the whole process amazes me.

"Since joining my MCAA student chapter, I have had many great experiences and met even more great people. To start, I got my previous internship through MCAA, which introduced me to people in the industry and opened my mind up to the countless opportunities in mechanical contracting. I have gained all sorts of skills while being involved with MCAA, from public speaking at fundraising events to problem solving-skills learned through various programs and events.

"I also attended the MCAA GreatFutures Forum in Salt Lake City and met many like-minded students, as well as industry professionals. Through all these experiences, I have learned so much about mechanical contracting, leadership, and hard work.”

View additional information on JRGF Scholarships, or make a donation to the foundation for a research project, initiative, scholarship or cause here.